Hello, this is NIFS!
2008-05-02

[Japanese Etiquette / Chopsticks Manners (1)]
Chopsticks are essential when eating meals in Japan. The following are examples of what is considered bad manners when using chopsticks in Japan. “nigiribashi”: gripping the 2 chopsticks together to eat food, “tsukibashi” / “sashibashi” prodding food with the chopsticks to eat it, “sashibashi”: pointing at people or things with one’s chopsticks. (to be continued)

[Nara Lifestyle Guide / Checkup for small children]
http://www.nifs.or.jp/mobile/eng/guide/healthcare/healthcare04.html

[Seasonal Life Tips / Enjoy the holiday season in Nara Prefecture]

There are a number of national holidays in the last week of April and the first week of May which are called “Golden Week.” Some companies close on weekdays during the period and some have long holidays of 1 week to 10 days. The climate in Japan at this time is ideal for outdoor activities. Also, some transport companies sell special discount tickets for the season. Please make use of NIFS’s mobile phone site [Useful Lists of Facilities] http://www.nifs.or.jp/mobile/eng/info/index.html to check information on parks or hot spas in the Prefecture.